Regional map - Developing styles and techniques

[Diamond]

I really like the overall 'feel' of this, especially the actual size dimensions - I like that elongated look.

The mountains look good to me, but then I like that darker look. Plus, it'll probably be balanced out when you put all your text in. The coastlines look awesome; I really dig that effect, and I like that big depresssion in the west.

The only thing I'd do is like Djekspek suggested and add a bunch of little jagged islands around your fjords.

[The-Somberlain]

Thanks everyone for the comments...

Things have been pretty busy around here, so I have a hard time updating and working on my map, but I'll post an updated version sometime this week I suppose...Thanks again!

[CartoGeo]

Thanks guys for the feedback.

I am posting an update. I've worked the mountain shape, though it seems it needs a little bit more work. I've also came up with a forest style that I think matches the mountains. Finally, I worked on the sea texture and the coastline, but I think I still miss it...

The lakes are more and modeled after real-world areas. The valley is a sink for a lot of water so I felt it was natural to be filled with lakes. The rivers need some work, so I hide them for now.

So, check it out, I think I am more or less there...

PS: I am going to work on islands and stuff...it seems kind of empty and I think I have a good background that helps me incorporate an intricate island chain.

Would you provide the general 'land' texture and upload it to this site. I like it and want to add it to my collection, if you wouldn't mind?

[The-Somberlain]

Well here's an update! I added islands and a lot of them...This map has a lot of history, actually this were most of my world history begins and since I am redesigning the whole setting I thought I would begin here. It has been struck by the gods and the earth has shaken and stirred. So some strange formations are due to these events.

I also began labelling, to see how it looks...I don't know, need to clear my eyes a bit.

About the texture: The main land was actually formed using Pasi's tutorial with a bit different mix of layers. The texture is available in Pasi's tutorial post. I will probably post a detailed text about the map when it's finished as I would like to keep the same style in all of my overland maps from here on.

[The-Somberlain]

Here is another (major) update on my map. I think I am in the final stages of this one. I have added labels for most of the major geographical features. I only include the four important capital cities of the kingdoms, but maybe I will take them out and make a political map instead. I plan to begin some writing this weekend gathering and polishing my old notes about the area and including new ones. I suppose I might change or add some bits of the map.

Anyway, since I am nearing the completion of this project, I would appreciate any feedback from the community.

Thanks again guys!

[Gandwarf]

The mountains, forests and overall terrain looks great. Really cool stuff.

Not too impressed with the sea/lakes however. I think it's both the texture (a pretty plain texture compared to the rest of the textures in the map) and the transition from land to water. I never make maps in this style, so I can't give you tips on how to improve it.

[Steel General]

I think maybe the bevel on your land masses may be to big, things appear to be 'floating a bit'.

[Ascension]

I see what SG is saying about the floating...I think it because there is no shallow part in the ocean...it's all fairly flat and consistent. Try some darker blue further out to sea or some lighter teal closer in. The only thing that really sticks out for me is that I'd remove some of the islands in the archipelago...especially from the bays.

[Diamond]

The only thing that really sticks out for me is that I'd remove some of the islands in the archipelago...especially from the bays.

Yes. They seem too evenly spaced and similar in size to one another. Doesn't look natural.

[rdanhenry]

The islands are unusual, but perhaps there is a story behind that? I can see that very much as the remains of a land that sunk in some disaster.

Fangorn Forest? Really? Are you dropping a big hint to look for Ents there? Because that's totally what I would do.